According to Arne Slot, Liverpool's decision to sign two centre-forwards in the summer now seems like a wise move, particularly given Hugo Ekitike's devastating injury. Ekitike will miss the remainder of the season and the World Cup with France due to a ruptured right Achilles tendon.
Slot believes Ekitike will come back stronger than ever, citing examples of players who have overcome similar setbacks to perform at an even higher level. The timing of the injury is unfortunate, with Alexander Isak having just returned from a long-term layoff.
Slot started Isak in his first match since December, but he struggled to make an impact and was substituted at half-time. Slot noted that having two No 9s has proven beneficial, as it avoids the risk of being the only club with just one striker. He acknowledged that some people may now be questioning whether Liverpool should sign another No 9.
Liverpool's focus is on securing Champions League football, starting with the Merseyside derby against Everton. Despite the 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, Slot is optimistic about the team's future, pointing to their ability to generate 21 shots and have high xG against a team that typically dominates possession. He believes the team can compete with the best in Europe, but acknowledges that changes are needed, particularly with the departures of Mo Salah and Andy Robertson.